Question

In which of the following molecule, the central atom has three lone pairs of electrons?

• A. Ammonia
• B. Xenon difluoride
• C. Chlorine trifluoride
• D. Hydrogen sulphide

Answer 1

The correct option is B Xenon difluoride

Xenon difluoride is $Xe{F}_2$. $Xe$ is a noble gas. So, it has $8$ electrons in the valence shell. Out of which, $2$ are involved in formation of covalent bond with the $2F$ atoms. So, $6$ electrons are left as unbonded. Therefore, lone pairs = half of $6$ = $3$.